God sometimes uses different tools to help us further His Word. In Paul’s case in Philippians 1 we see God using the tool of chains. Philippians 1:12 & 13 says, “But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ.”The word “furtherance” is a military word meaning to advance. Paul’s imprisonment, instead of shutting the door, had opened new doors. Because of his circumstances he was able to teach the palace guards about Christ.

Paul had been allowed to have a private lodging, but he was chained to the wrist of one of these soldiers day and night. These palace guards were known as the Praetorian Guard. Imagine these men listening to Paul speak with his friends about Jesus, hearing him pray and watching him write letters to the churches. It wasn’t long before some of these men became Christians. Paul’s chains gave him contact with the lost and the gospel was advanced.

What chains do you and I have? Maybe you look at your job as being your chain. Day after day you labor at the same job and you try to have joy in spite of it. What do you suppose Paul would be doing if he had your job? May I suggest that he would be using every available circumstance to teach others about Christ.

Paul’s chains also gave courage to the saved. The Christians at Rome took new courage when they saw Paul’s faith. Philippians 1:14 “and most of the brethren in the Lord, having become confident by my chains, are much more bold to speak the word without fear.”

We know the angels of God have wings, but what about God Himself? Ps 91:4 says, “He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler.” Of course, God’s wings are being used figuratively for care and protection. Isn’t it wonderful that our God has these kinds of wings?

We sing a truth when we sing “Under his wings, who from His love can sever? Under His wings, O what precious enjoyment. There will I hide till life’s trials are over; sheltered, protected no evil can harm me; resting in Jesus I’m safe evermore.”

Do you recall the tender words of Jesus for not so tender people in Mt. 23:37? “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the one who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing.”

Our God has wings of care, But you must believe to share. He is always ready to provide, But only for those who strive.

His word is clear and right, But you must walk by faith, not sight. Our God will fulfill His promises true, But you must submit and be born anew.

In Matt. 11:28-30 Jesus said, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you shall find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.”

When I think of a “yoke”, my mind goes back in time to the ox. William Barclay writes, “In Palestine ox-yokes were made of wood; the ox was brought, and the measurements were taken. The yoke was then roughed out, and the ox was brought back to have the yoke tried on. The yoke was carefully adjusted….so not to gall the neck of the patient beast.”

There is a legend (may or may not be true) that Jesus made the best ox-yokes in all Galilee. Men would come from all over to buy the best. Barclay says that in that day shops would have signs over their doors.He points out that the Greek word for “yoke” can mean “well-fitting”. It has been suggested that the sign over the carpenter’s shop in Nazareth may have been: “My yokes fit well”.

When we take the yoke of Christ upon us, it is not meant to gall us, but to guide us in life. Your yoke is tailored to fit you! Jesus once said “I have come that you may have life and have it more abundantly”.

This beautiful invitation of Christ also says “My burden is light”. There is an old saying “My burden has become my song”. There is a song that talks about an older, bigger brother who is carrying his younger brother. He is asked if his load is heavy. He answers “No, he ain’t heavy, he’s my brother”. The “burden” of Christ is always light because He is our elder Brother!